What do I do if get a traffic ticket in NY?

It depends on whether you plan to plead guilty or not guilty.

Simply put, if you plead guilty you'll pay a fine and possibly incur points on your driving record and an increase in auto insurance rates, though an accident prevention course might help you combat the latter two penalties.

Pleading not guilty means you'll get a hearing date and go to court. Generally, people solicit the help of traffic ticket attorneys when they want to fight their tickets.

How can I get a NY traffic ticket dismissed?

Like most ticket-related issues, this depends on a number of factors, including the violation itself.

For example, to get a traffic ticket dismissed you might be able to:

Present evidence that you're not in complete violation of the law. (For example, some officers or courts will dismiss a ticket for having no proof of insurance or an expired registration card if you present current proof within a certain amount of time.)

What if I am a minor and get a traffic ticket in NY?

Overall, you'll
pay (or fight) your New York ticket in the same way an adult would, but because you're a minor you might face permit or license suspension or revocation for up to 60 days. The exact penalties depend on the violation.

What is the cost of my NY traffic ticket?

Traffic ticket costs vary depending on everything from the nature of the violation to where you obtained the ticket.

Generally, the cost is on the ticket. If you can't find your ticket, read up on
replacing a lost ticket. If the amount isn't on your ticket, contact the TVB or the local court where you obtained the ticket. Sometimes, the law enforcement office can help you determine how much your ticket is if you can provide the officer with the exact violation.

Keep in mind you might end up paying more than the flat ticket cost. You may also face court fees, attorney fees, and other related fines and fees.

How many points will I get if convicted?

Points range up to 11, and the number you get depends not only on your violation, but also on how many violations.

Note that even a minor traffic violation can bring major consequences. In New York, if you reach 11 points in an 18 month period, your
license is suspended.

How can I find a lost traffic ticket online?

Otherwise, you'll need to go through the local court where you were ticketed, and the steps will depend on where you were ticketed and whether you even need a replacement to conduct business. See our section on
lost traffic tickets for more information.

When is it a good idea to hire a NY traffic ticket attorney?

Most people hire attorneys when they plan to plead not guilty―or
fight their tickets. Some hire attorneys to accompany them to any required court appearance, especially if they want to try to plead to reduced charges.

How many driving record points can I accumulate before the state suspends my NY driver's license?